New Hunting Permits for Small Game

The Department of Conservation now has a new recreational hunting permit for small game animals.

The new permit is for small unprotected game animals on public conservation land (PCL). It includes animals such as Canada geese, feral geese, hares and rabbits.

“The new permits replace earlier versions and restricts the hunting of unprotected game to specific areas and times,” says DOC National Hunting Advisor Ian Cooksley.

“You need your own permit, whether you are by yourself or part of a hunting party.”

Anyone wanting to hunt on conservation land requires a hunting permit from DOC.  Hunting without a permit is a breach of the Wild Animal Control, Wildlife and Conservation Acts.

A permit can be obtained from DOC Area Offices. Some standard conditions apply and special conditions have been added relating to firearm calibre, ammunition type, dogs and anything else relevant to hunting particular species.

The special conditions will reflect the level of public use at a site, its conservation values, management activities, terrain, boundaries, time of year and the interests of neighbouring landowners.

Hunters are reminded that ‘spotlighting’ or hunting after dark is strictly prohibited on PCL as it is illegal and endangers others.